HC Deb 14 May 1896 vol 40 c1316
MR. W. FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he can give the number of labourers' cottages erected in the Mountrath division of the Mountmellick Union, and what expenses were incurred; will he explain why the 15 cottages, finally adopted under a fifth scheme, are delayed; and whether the Government intend to introduce a Measure to cheapen, simplify, and expedite the erection of labourers' dwellings?

THE CHIEF SECRETARY FOR IRELAND (Mr. GERALD BALFOUR,) Leeds, Central

Four cottages have been erected in the electoral division named at a cost of £559. The delay in carrying out the 5th Improvement Scheme arises from the fact that the Guardians have not yet got possession of the plots for the cottages to be erected under it. The Guardians are using their best endeavours to expedite the matter. A Bill having for its object the Amendment of the Labourers' Acts is now ready.